Are you looking for delicious and healthy dinner ideas that won't derail your low-carb, cholesterol-conscious lifestyle? Look no further! This Creamy Tuscan Chicken recipe is packed with flavor, surprisingly easy to make, and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal. It's a testament to how healthy eating doesn't have to mean sacrificing taste. This recipe is a fantastic example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a delicious alternative to processed, unhealthy food.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for a dairy-free option)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
- 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- Optional: 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (oil-packed, drained) for extra flavor
Instructions:
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Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add the onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3-5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the diced tomatoes (undrained), heavy cream (or coconut milk), Parmesan cheese, basil, parsley, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the sauce to a simmer, stirring occasionally.
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Combine and Finish: Return the chicken to the skillet. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened slightly. If using sun-dried tomatoes, add them during the last 5 minutes of simmering.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the Creamy Tuscan Chicken hot, over zucchini noodles, cauliflower rice, or a bed of spinach for a complete low-carb meal.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: When searing the chicken, ensure you don't overcrowd the skillet. This will help achieve a nice brown crust instead of steamed chicken. Work in batches if necessary.
- Taste and adjust: Seasoning is key! Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Fresh herbs make a difference: Using fresh basil and parsley significantly enhances the flavor of this dish. If fresh herbs aren't available, you can substitute with 1 teaspoon of dried basil and 1/2 teaspoon of dried parsley.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicier kick.
- Add vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrients and flavor.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Roast the chicken and vegetables together in the oven for a simplified version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400 (depending on serving size and variations)
- Protein: 35-40g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 5-7g (depending on choice of side)
- Cholesterol: Moderately low due to the lean chicken and avoidance of high-cholesterol ingredients.
This Creamy Tuscan Chicken is a delicious and healthy recipe that's perfect for those following a low-carb and cholesterol-conscious diet. It's a simple, quick dinner idea that's both satisfying and flavorful, showcasing how easy it is to create delicious and healthy meals at home. Enjoy!